Founded by Gordon Francis and Arthur Barnett, Francis-Barnett set up shop in the old Excelsior works in Coventry in 1919. The downturn in the motorcycle market in the early 1920s prompted F-B to switch from producing expensive, high quality machines to the more utilitarian. First seen in 1923, the first of these was the triangulated, pin-jointed, straight-tube frame models whose novel method of construction gave rise to the 'Built Like A Bridge' advertising slogan. This straight-tube 'Fanny B' is powered by the 172cc Villiers two-stroke engine and is equipped with the three-speed gearbox and automatic lubrication system. The current vendor has owned the machine for 25 years, using it only on private roads, and says that it is 'surprisingly quick for a 172cc two-stroke'. Described as in generally good condition, with 'fair' brightwork, 'CKC 906B' benefits from a new front wheel rim and tyre and comes with Swansea V5.

Saleroom notices

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